While the majority of NBA teams have at least 20 games under their belts, there have been a few standouts among the rookies.
5. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope- Guard
A mouthful of a name, but he will be one of the players to watch in the very near future. KCP has not seen a ton of playing time because of the talent already surrounding him on the Pistons roster. He only averages 7.3 points per game and 2.1 rebounds, but in just about 20 minutes per game he certainly makes the most of his time. Once he sees more time on the floor, his production will only rise
4.Ben McLemore- Guard
While he may not be #1 on the music charts this year, McLemore is making a name for himself in a different way. On a bottom feeding Kings team, McLemore sees a fair share of minutes at 25 per game. While Isiah Thomas, his partner in the back court eats up all the assists, McLemore only benefits from a lack of coverage and puts up 10 ppg and 3 assists per game as well.
3. Trey Burke- Guard
One of the most exciting players to watch in last years March Madness, continues his highlight reel for the Utah Jazz. He may have started off the season with an injury, but in the 10 games he played he has been a small bright spot in the Jazz unimpressive season. He has seen a consistent increase in minutes per game and continues to improve stat wise as well. Burke is average 12.7 ppg, 3.6 rebounds, and 4.1 assists.
2. Victor Oladipo- Guard
Oladipo had an impressive career in Indiana and looks to keep it up with the Orlando Magic. On a team full of young guys, Oladipo may not have the most impressive stats among rookie guards, but the contributions he makes to his team do not go unnoticed. He has proven himself to be a great floor manager and a consistent scoring threat from inside and out. He is averaging 13.8ppg, 4.6 rbg, and 3.6 apg. The only thing he needs to work on is his 75% from the free throw line.
1. Michael Carter-Williams-Guard
MCW has had one of the hottest starts ever for a rookie. He flirts with a double-double every night and consistently pulls down rebounds. There have been some very unfortunate injuries at inopportune times, but nothing that seems to be a long term issue. He leads rookies in points per game and assists per game. He makes the 76ers a very scary team moving forward and seems to be their point guard to build around. In 37 minutes per game he has been averaging 17.7 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 7.3 assists. If he stays healthy, he looks to be a shoe in for rookie of the year.
Honorable mention- Tim Hardaway, Jr, Hollis Thompson, Tony Snell, Kelly Olynyk , Vitor Faverani
Written by: Joe Quinn